Some College Ministers are worn down and feel like quitting at this point. Others are energized by seeing the finish line of what may have been the most difficult and certainly the most different school year. Here are some things to consider doing as you lean into the end of the semester or quarter.
1. Who has disappeared in the last month or so? What student or students that had been regulars have disappeared over the last month or so and need some encouragement and to know they are missed?
2. Are there some publicity pictures that need to be made in preparation for that new brochure or poster that you will be putting together this summer? Remember, pictures at events tell more than you can ever say in words and even answer questions incoming freshmen didn't even know how to ask.
3. Send a letter/email or make a phone call to the Youth Ministers in the area asking them to send you their senior list with possible college plans. Many are gearing up for their Senior Sunday and that information is fresh.
4. Make plans for a "Senior Supper" or other farewell event for those graduating. AND, think hard about some who might be graduating that have drifted away from the ministry during their senior year, but were very involved prior to that. Make sure they are invited to whatever senior event is done. And, let them know their involvement has been appreciated.
5. Get the school Freshmen Orientation dates for summer on the calendar and know for sure what will and will not be done in person, virtual, etc.
6. TRAIN, TRAIN, TRAIN those student leaders who will be working with freshmen this fall.
7. Have a sit down with four or five freshmen who have been very involved this year and find out what clicked with them that caused them to connect and stay connected. Listen way more than you talk...I know its hard. Remember, students think and talk better with free pizza in their mouth!
BONUS ONE: If you are considering or planning to make a change in program time, place, format, etc, do a one time experiment to see how it needs to be adjusted, confirmed, or even junked. You may be very surprised at what you learn!
Arliss Dickerson's brand new book, A COLLEGE MINISTRY SUCCESS FORMULA, is now available at amazon.com.
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